Exercise description of the dumbbell front raise.  Learn about the dumbbell front raise with video and pictures.  Also learn how the dumbbell front raise can improve your sports performance.

Primary muscles worked:   Anterior Deltoid

Synergist Muscles:  Forearms

Mechanics:  Isolation

Equipment:  Dumbbells

How to perform the exercise:   The dumbbell front raise exercise is started by having an athlete grab a pair of dumbbells with an overhand grip. Next, the athlete should be in a perfect standing position with the body in proper alignment. The athlete should then move their hands and arms, which were to the sides of the body, to the front of the body so that the palms of the hands face the body. Now, the athlete should raise their arms up making sure that arms stay in full extension. This will utilize the muscles in the front of the shoulder. Once the arms are parallel to the floor, the athlete may return the weight to the starting position.

Spotting the exercise:  The spotter should make sure the athlete does not over arch with the spine during the exercise. Also, if the athlete becomes unable to complete the desired number of reps, the spotter can apply upward force on the wrists to assist the athlete with completion of those reps.

Sport specific application: The dumbbell front raise is great for strengthening the anterior (front) deltoid of the shoulder. Boxers can benefit greatly in particular as the shoulders are in constant tension during boxing bouts.